Nerello Mascalese

Nerello mascalese or in Sicilian niuriddu mascalisi is a vine that grows mainly in three places: the vicinity of Mount Etna, the city of Catania, and the area of Torre Faro (a locality in the municipality of Messina).

It is a dark-skinned grape variety, known for growing on the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily. Its grapes have an oblong shape and a light red color inside. It ripens very late, and its harvest usually takes place between the second and third week of October.

The wines produced from this variety have high alcohol content and are ideal for long aging. The nerello mascalese single variety wine is ruby in color, with garnet hues; on the nose, it features intense aromas of red fruits and floral touches with a slight note of spice and seasoning; on the palate, it is dry, tannic, persistent, and harmonious.

Its popularity has grown in recent years due to its excellent qualities. It is a highly appreciated grape, as it recalls the versatility and elegance of pinot noir. Its production is limited, which makes it difficult for it to be widely known in other parts of the world.